August 6, 89,
Charles Rebert Southerland, 89, passed away on Thursday, August 6, 2020 at Transitions Hospice in Raleigh.
Charles was born in Wayne County on October 16, 1930, the only child of the late Jake and Azile Hollowell Southerland. He attended Goldsboro City Schools and graduated in 1949 from Goldsboro High School. Charles proudly served his country in the United States Air Force during the Korean Conflict. In 1958, he graduated from N.C. State University with a B.S. in Civil Engineering. Charles was employed in both engineering capacities and administration for 38 years. For 27 years, he served as the Director of Public Works for the City of Goldsboro and retired in May, 1996.
Charles was a long time member of St. Luke United Methodist Church. He was devoted to his church and was involved in many activities where he utilized his abilities to share the love of God. Charles was a member of the Kiwanis Club of Goldsboro for 36 years and served as their president in 1974. He was a life member of the Goldsboro Masonic Lodge #634 A.F. & A.M. where he served as Past Master, Past District Deputy Grand Master, certified Lecturer, and was the recipient of his 50 year pin. Charles was also a life member of the American Institute of Transportation Engineers and the American Public Works Association where he served as the president of the North Carolina chapter in 1974.
The family will receive friends on Tuesday, August 11, 2020 from 9:00 – 10:00 a.m. at Seymour Funeral Home followed by a graveside service at 10:30 a.m. in Willow Dale Cemetery with Rev. Dan Baer officiating. Masonic rites will conclude the service.
Charles is survived by his wife of 69 years, Sarah “Sallie” Griswold Southerland; son, Charles Rebert “Chuck” Southerland, Jr. and wife Wynonna (Nonie) Johnson Southerland of Fairbanks, AK; daughter, Elizabeth Southerland Crew and husband Robert Crew of Raleigh; and his grandchildren, Lauren Elise Southerland of Walnut Creek, CA, Kirsten Lee Southerland of Fairbanks, AK, Jacob Southerland Crew of Raleigh, Heather Thompson Crew of Raleigh, and Rebekah Kent of Jacksonville, FL.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his son, David Andrew Southerland.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorials be given in his memory to St. Luke United Methodist Church, 1608 E. Pine Street, Goldsboro, NC 27530.
Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.seymourfuneralhome.com.
